Re-read December 2016. Still as good, if not better the second time around. Still cried this time. This one really tugs at the heartstrings while settRe-read December 2016. Still as good, if not better the second time around. Still cried this time. This one really tugs at the heartstrings while setting you at the edge of your seat.
For a novella, this reads better than some other full length books I've read. Pamela Clare is a great story teller, and she knows how to create some great heroes! The build up of tension, suspense, and all the emotions she conjures up in her writing is nothing short of extraordinary. Throughout this book, I held my breathe, lost some sleep, and shed a few tears going through the ordeal with this group of characters.
It's almost Christmas and that means parties. There are two separate parties held at one location, and they both have members and affiliates of the I-Team in attendance. But soon enough, the celebration turns into a nightmare for them all. Some of them are held hostage by a groups of narco-terrorists who wants an imprisoned family member released. Meanwhile, some of their friends and loved ones are on the outside figuring out how to deal with these people hellbent on destruction and killing.
The way Ms. Clare tells the story can be played out like scenes from a movie. And it's on-the-edge-of-your-seat kind of movie. I loved every part of it. I have come to love these characters as well so it's hard to let them go. I hope Ms. Clare will revisit them sometime in the future. This book also has the collaboration of Kaylea Cross's HRT men, I haven't read that series but I'm intrigued now after reading this book and will be checking them out soon.
SO. SO. GOOD. Definitely a 2015 favorites!
Merged review:
Re-read December 2016. Still as good, if not better the second time around. Still cried this time. This one really tugs at the heartstrings while setting you at the edge of your seat.
For a novella, this reads better than some other full length books I've read. Pamela Clare is a great story teller, and she knows how to create some great heroes! The build up of tension, suspense, and all the emotions she conjures up in her writing is nothing short of extraordinary. Throughout this book, I held my breathe, lost some sleep, and shed a few tears going through the ordeal with this group of characters.
It's almost Christmas and that means parties. There are two separate parties held at one location, and they both have members and affiliates of the I-Team in attendance. But soon enough, the celebration turns into a nightmare for them all. Some of them are held hostage by a groups of narco-terrorists who wants an imprisoned family member released. Meanwhile, some of their friends and loved ones are on the outside figuring out how to deal with these people hellbent on destruction and killing.
The way Ms. Clare tells the story can be played out like scenes from a movie. And it's on-the-edge-of-your-seat kind of movie. I loved every part of it. I have come to love these characters as well so it's hard to let them go. I hope Ms. Clare will revisit them sometime in the future. This book also has the collaboration of Kaylea Cross's HRT men, I haven't read that series but I'm intrigued now after reading this book and will be checking them out soon.
It's been three years since Ellie Meeks lost her husband, a helicopter pilot in the Army Ranger. Raising twin toddlers, Daniel and Daisy, as a 4 stars
It's been three years since Ellie Meeks lost her husband, a helicopter pilot in the Army Ranger. Raising twin toddlers, Daniel and Daisy, as a single parent has been a challenge. She didn't need a challenge of a broken down vehicle to add to her list. But that's when local volunteer/ski patroller/Rocky Mountain Rescue team member, Jesse Moretti showed up. Although the two have been neighbors for two years, they never actually met. He's the good neighbor who have shoveled her sidewalks and put out the trash bin when she forgets. Though Ellie thought all those deeds were from all the good folks of Scarlet Springs rather than one man.
Jesse Moretti has some challenges of his own, such as PTSD from his time in the Rangers, as well as from losing a girl he couldn't saved. He didn't have the inclination to be involved with anyone. Until he came across Ellie with her sick kids. As their encounters grew, so did their attraction.
Ellie struggles with moving on, and Jesse struggles with letting himself get too close for fear of letting this family down. The characters were very likeable and issues were resolved through communications instead of misunderstandings, which is a huge plus. The romance was fast paced and quite steamy. The twins added some cute moments and I love getting to see characters from the I-Team series again. This time with Nate, Megan, and Jack's family.
Loving this series so far, and guarantee you will for hard for these characters and this little town.
(ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)....more
Another favorite in this new series. This one focus around Eric Hawke and Victoria Woodley. Eric got off on the wrong foot with Vic in the fi4.5 stars
Another favorite in this new series. This one focus around Eric Hawke and Victoria Woodley. Eric got off on the wrong foot with Vic in the first book, thinking she was a man getting in between his friends happy ending. Of course he was led to believe Vic was a guy so it wasn't entirely his fault. There was an immediate attraction when they both met.
Vic is escaping the big city of Chicago to come to Scarlet for Lexi and Austin's wedding. Even though she's on vacation, her boss is hounding her with work. She's also trying to escape the nightmare and torture that she endured with a sleazy ex-boyfriend. Vic is a city girl and Lexi has all sorts of wonderful activities planned for the bridal party to show Vic the beauty of Scarlet, and to get her mind off her past ordeal.
Although they didn't meet on the best of terms, Eric and Vic teams up to work on a project for the wedding. Vic has sworn off men but the attraction to Eric is so strong, will she be able to stick to that promise?
Everything in this book was great. The development between Eric and Vic's relationship was sexy and sweet. What was also great was Eric's approach to Vic. He knew that someone from her past hurt her and he never rushed her in any way. Eric is off the charts hot. Vic also wins a lot of people over with her big heart and kindness.
There was no angst, drama, or big misunderstandings tropes that made this a great read. It was simply straightforward and very enjoyable. There's cameos from Gabe, Nate and Jack's family in this one. Looking forward to more books in the series.
Pamela Clare's venture into contemporary romance is just as delicious to devour as her historical and romantic suspense.
I love a rekindle romance betPamela Clare's venture into contemporary romance is just as delicious to devour as her historical and romantic suspense.
I love a rekindle romance between two characters. Lexi Jewell escaped Scarlet, Colorado 12 years ago for the big city. Now she returns to help her father with the family inn when as he has personal struggles with his own marriage. On her first day back, she runs into her first love, Austin Taylor. They both broke each other's hearts years ago. Can they mend those fences and be friends? The answer is yes they can. Even friends with benefits as the sparks between them remains. Austin Taylor thought he hardened his feelings toward Lexi after she left, but having her close reminds him that maybe he has a soft spot for her still.
This is strictly CR but there's a hint of mystery/suspense as things kick up to discover an embezzlement along with a man on the run.
I completely enjoyed this, and I love seeing some of the I-Team characters like Zach and Gabe.
Trying to portray a wholesome, family man image in order to help his dad sell a chain of the family business, Spencer Holiday recruits his 3.5-4 stars
Trying to portray a wholesome, family man image in order to help his dad sell a chain of the family business, Spencer Holiday recruits his best friend/business partner, Charlotte to be his pretend fiancé for a week. The two of them have been friends since college so this shouldn't be too hard to pretend they know each other well. What they didn't account for was the steam between the sheets and to fall for one another. But how long can this charade go on for before they are exposed? After all, Spencer is known for being a playboy in the gossip rags.
Told from Spencer's POV, you get to see he does have a big ego... among other big things, he's more comfortable in his own skin and he can charm anyone. The story itself is quite predictable, but it's still a fun quick light read of friends to lovers romance. The steam factor is scorching although they do fall for each very quickly. I'm looking forward to Harper and Nick's book (Spencer's sister and friend) in Mister O....more
If you're into insta-love and predictable drama, this could be for you.
Fiona Mackenzie doesn't date athletes, especially football players. E3.5 stars
If you're into insta-love and predictable drama, this could be for you.
Fiona Mackenzie doesn't date athletes, especially football players. Ethan (Dex) Dexter have admired and been infatuated with Fiona for two years, though he never made it known. Until they both meet up when they visit Fiona's sister and brother-in-law (who's also great friend with Dex) to see how they're doing with the new baby. One thing led to another, passion ignites.
I'm not crazy about insta-love but Ethan is a hero that you can't help but love. Fiona is a character that grew on me. I thought she needed a backbone much earlier in the book when it came to her job. She got there eventually. I liked that she didn't back down when things got tough with Ethan.
I marked it down half a star due to the melodrama that played out. Gossip rags and leaked photos happen in the media too often so I found it boring in this case and predictable as well.
Not the strongest in the series but the steam factor is off the charts....more
I really enjoy a good friends to lovers stories and this one was perfect in every way. It was full of wit, fun, and lots of heart. Ivy and Gray suit eI really enjoy a good friends to lovers stories and this one was perfect in every way. It was full of wit, fun, and lots of heart. Ivy and Gray suit each other in and out of the bedroom....more
When I first heard that the next I-Team book will feature Holly Bradshaw, my immediate thought was 'why?? She's vain, sleeps around with too many men,When I first heard that the next I-Team book will feature Holly Bradshaw, my immediate thought was 'why?? She's vain, sleeps around with too many men, and she's an entertainment reporter. What's going to be suspenseful about that?' But boy, Pamela sure knows how to prove me wrong. My apologies for doubting you Ms. Clare! This is an AWESOME addition to the series. Everything was unexpected and I loved every bit of it!
This is a favorite series of mine and I love seeing all the previous characters here again, pulling together to protect one of their own. You learn something new in the characters and it definitely will surprise you.
This is also one of the hottest book in the series. Phew, get me a fan, or better yet, ice cubes. ;)
Highly recommended! It would be best to read the books in order to appreciate the characters more.
Re-read September 2016. Such an amazing series!...more
Great wrap up to the Dean Brothers' stories, even though there are still some unanswered questions which will be in the spinoff I hope.
Jory and Piper Great wrap up to the Dean Brothers' stories, even though there are still some unanswered questions which will be in the spinoff I hope.
Jory and Piper were great characters and great together. Racing against the clock to disable the chip embedded in the brothers' spines, Piper must figure out the code with her computer skills to save their lives. Piper had some doubts about Jory as her loyalty is skewed and she's trying hard to connect to her father. But the more she learned, she has a hard time knowing who to trust. Yet she can't deny her attraction to Jory.
His brothers thought he had died but Jory is fighting hard to get back to them and saving their lives if he can't save his own. I love Jory's story and the sexy man that he is. He's protective and possessive without going into a-hole alpha territory. In fact, all the Dean brothers have the great balance of being alpha and no douche-baggery-ness.
The new twist in interesting and I'm looking forward to seeing what else is revealed....more
Love this book and the pairing of Cameron and Ainsley. When the Mackenzie men love, they love wholeheartedly body and soul! *swoon*
Both Cameron and AiLove this book and the pairing of Cameron and Ainsley. When the Mackenzie men love, they love wholeheartedly body and soul! *swoon*
Both Cameron and Ainsley have experienced some terrible things from their past. What was done to Cameron was beyond cruel especially when you realize who it was that inflicted the pain, and the sacrifice Cameron made to protect his family. It changed him to the point that he will never take a woman to his own bed or remarry. Until Ainsley. Ainsley is strong and independent, taking no nonsense from anyone, especially when she's helping retrieve the queen's letters from a blackmailer. Cameron finds out and offers to help, with some stipulations of course. Their romance grew beautifully, no angst, no crazy mistresses to come between them. I love the change that evolved with Cameron too, to surpass his fears and allow his heart to soften. We get to see Ian/Beth and Mac/Isabella as well as a glimpse into Hart's love interest.
I'm loving this series so far. The plot in this book isn't strong but the writing and the characters more than make up for a great read. Looking forward to more Mackenzie men and Ainsley's brothers in future books!...more
This is my favorite book in the series so far! I love the growing bond between all of the characters and the build up of the plot gets more intense inThis is my favorite book in the series so far! I love the growing bond between all of the characters and the build up of the plot gets more intense in this one. There were some surprises and revelations I wasn't expecting. Some parts here and there brought me to tears.
As a series, I think it's important if these books are read in order. You become more invested in these characters than if you read this one as a standalone.
The Hard Ink team is still trying to track down people responsible for what happened to them a year ago. I don't want to say too much at the risk of spoiling the story. Just be prepare for some gripping intense scenes.
I really love Derek DiMarzio (Marz) and Emilie Garza's characters. Laura Kaye has written a hero who has faced the worst of situations yet is still able to see the light in life. Abandoned as a child, Marz never knew love. The only connection he had to people were his SF team, and the only father figure he thought he had betrayed them. I love that LK didn't gloss over the physical aspect of being an amputee either. This added to Marz's character much more and make you love him more. Marz has the ability to make you laugh, squirm in your seat with his hotness and dirty talk, and also make your heart break a little. And those tattoos!! Yep, just gonna leave it there. I wanted him for myself at times! Lol. Emilie, on the other hand, is another great heroine. She's strong in mind and heart. The things Marz and Emilie had in common were their loyalty and their nature of doing right by people they love, even when it's hard. Plus, their chemistry is scorching. Make sure you have a fan nearby or lots of cold water when you read their scenes.
The plot in these books are intertwined but LK ends each book in places where you feel satisfy and not in so much of a cliffhanger, which I appreciate! While it does bring forth more questions, I'm happy with the outcome so that I don't hate waiting on pins and needles to get the next book.
P.S. One of my favorite scenes in the book involved a blushing Beckett. This cracked me up quite a bit. Can't wait for his story! ...more
Great end to this funny, sexy series and the saga of Drew Evans's life. Lots of outrageous moments, laugh out loud lines, and sexy times. As well as sGreat end to this funny, sexy series and the saga of Drew Evans's life. Lots of outrageous moments, laugh out loud lines, and sexy times. As well as some cute scene stealers from Mackenzie and James. ...more
This was my favorite in the series. Love the writing, clever banter, and so much sexiness and hot chemistry between Sophie and Logan! A first4.5 stars
This was my favorite in the series. Love the writing, clever banter, and so much sexiness and hot chemistry between Sophie and Logan! A first read for me by Samanthe Beck and certainly won't be the last. I need to read about the other McCade brothers now.
Sophie Brooks has always been the shy, blend into the background type of girl. She hid behind her baggy clothes to avoid unwanted harassment and judgment from others, especially when it came to her body image. After shedding her unwanted weight, Sophie has resolved to become more adventurous and let the new Sophie do what the old Sophie couldn't. Take chances and take charge in her life.
Logan McCade is a successful entrepreneur and businessman, though he's been all work and no play ever since he started up his own company. As the best man to his best friend's wedding, Logan is willing to take up any task asked of him. Even if it means trying to distract and make Sophie come out of her shell. Sophie has certainly blossomed into a beautiful woman and the duty he's been tasked with may involve a little more than watching Sophie.
I love seeing the growth in Sophie's confidence with herself. She has moments of wavering but what female doesn't with her own body. There wasn't much drama in this one except for near the end but resolved quickly which I enjoyed. Definitely a fun, sexy read....more
Ellie Swann has returned to her hometown to start her own medical practice while keeping an eye on her alcoholic/diabetic father. She eavesdr5++ stars
Ellie Swann has returned to her hometown to start her own medical practice while keeping an eye on her alcoholic/diabetic father. She eavesdrop in on a conversation in which the man of her dreams has recently broken up his long term engagement because he prefers risqué-wild sex. And Ellie hasn't had that much experience in that kind of sexual endeavors. So she decided to do something about it.
Tyler Longfoot has been the love them and leave them type, though he always made it known that's how he likes it. When he gets shot in the ass (and he has a fine one), he seeks out help from the new local doctor. In order to keep the incident quiet, he agrees to Ellie's bargain. To tutor her in becoming a wild woman... in bed. What he didn't bargain for is losing his heart in the process.
I absolutely love this book! Can't believe this was her debut novel! It was fun, and sexy and cute, and sexy (it bears repeating) with lots of awww moments. Plus some moments that made me laugh. I love everything about the H/h. Tyler was just yummy, I'm not sure there was anything I didn't like about him. Ellie was also a great heroine though naive and clueless at times, but I find that's what made her character endearing. It was just a refreshing read. One I will definitely re-read again!